Cent vs. Penny

Attribute	Cent	Penny
Value	1 cent	1 cent
Country of origin	United States	United Kingdom
Material	Copper-plated zinc	Bronze
Symbol	c	p
Size	19.05 mm	20.32 mm

Introduction

Cent and penny are two terms that are often used interchangeably to refer to the smallest unit of currency in the United States. However, there are some key differences between the two that are worth exploring. In this article, we will compare the attributes of cent and penny to provide a better understanding of their similarities and differences.

History

The term "cent" has its origins in the Latin word "centum," which means one hundred. It was first used in the United States in 1785 when the country adopted the decimal system of currency. On the other hand, the term "penny" has a more complex history, with its origins dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. The word "penny" is derived from the Old English word "penig," which means a coin or piece of money.

Denomination

Both cent and penny refer to the smallest unit of currency in the United States, with one cent being equal to one hundredth of a dollar. This means that there are 100 cents in a dollar. Similarly, a penny is also equal to one cent, making them essentially the same in terms of value. However, the term "cent" is more commonly used in official contexts, while "penny" is often used in everyday language.

Design

When it comes to design, both cent and penny have undergone several changes over the years. The current design of the cent features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse side and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse side. On the other hand, the design of the penny has also evolved, with the current version featuring a portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse side and a Union shield on the reverse side.

Material

One of the key differences between cent and penny lies in the material used to make them. The cent is made of copper-plated zinc, which gives it a distinct reddish color. In contrast, the penny is made of copper-plated steel, which gives it a more traditional copper color. This difference in material also affects the weight and durability of the two coins.

Usage

Both cent and penny are widely used in the United States for everyday transactions. They are commonly used to pay for goods and services, as well as to make change. However, the use of cash has been declining in recent years, with many people opting for electronic forms of payment such as credit cards and mobile wallets. This trend has raised questions about the future of cent and penny in the country.

Value

Despite being the smallest unit of currency, both cent and penny still hold value in the United States. They are accepted as legal tender and can be used to make purchases. However, there has been ongoing debate about the cost of producing these coins, with some arguing that it costs more to make them than they are actually worth. This has led to calls for the elimination of cent and penny from circulation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cent and penny are two terms that are often used interchangeably to refer to the smallest unit of currency in the United States. While they share many similarities, such as their value and usage, there are also some key differences between the two, including their history, design, material, and value. Whether cent and penny will continue to be used in the future remains to be seen, but for now, they remain an important part of the American currency system.